What is an Onsen?

Onsen (温泉) are hot springs that have a long tradition and are considered an integral part of Japanese culture. These natural thermal baths are not only places of relaxation but are also valued for their health-promoting properties.

Where can you find Onsen in Japan?

Onsen are widespread throughout Japan and can be found in various regions of the country. Some of the most famous Onsen areas include the volcanic regions of Hakone, Kyushu, Hokkaido, the Izu Peninsula, and the Kinosaki Onsen Region in Hyogo Prefecture. However, there are also several public Onsen baths in major cities.

All Onsen are marked with the typical symbol:

Onsen Symbol, Japan

 

Insider tips

  • Bring enough time for a trip to the Onsen. It’s best to combine the visit with an overnight stay. You should book the accommodation in advance. Usually, the nice accommodations are booked up two months in advance.
  • You don’t need swimwear. Bathing in the Onsen is done naked. You can bring a towel, but it is usually also provided.
  • Traditionally enjoy a milk after the thermal bath. You can find this in one of the numerous vending machines.
  • The evening atmosphere in a Red Rotenburo is particularly great.
  • If you want to take pictures in a secluded Onsen, you should get up as early as possible to avoid disturbing other guests.

Terms explained

Onsen

Onsen itself is the Japanese term for a hot spring. In general Onsen refers to a thermal bath similar to a wellness spa in Europe. However, swimming is not allowed here.

Rotenburo

Rotenburo refers to an outdoor thermal bath. These outdoor baths are particularly popular attractions during different seasons when the surroundings are enhanced by blossoms, autumn leaves, or snow, creating a special atmosphere.

Sento

A Sento public bathhouse, unlike an Onsen, is heated with regular tap water and not with natural thermal water from geothermal sources.

Ryokan

A Ryokan has nothing to do with an Onsen itself. It is a traditional Japanese inn often found in regions with Onsen. Typically, the overnight stay includes access to the inn’s own thermal bath and a Kaiseki menu. A typical Kaiseki menu consists of multiple courses carefully arranged and often artistically decorated. Each course focuses on the season and utilizes fresh, local ingredients.

Onsen Statue, Japan

Etiquette – What you need to know

  1. Tattoos are no go. While there are some more modern thermal baths that allow tattoos, in most Onsen, publicly displaying tattoos is prohibited. You can opt for private baths instead.
  2. Generally, men (男) and women (女) bathe separately. You leave your clothes in one of the baskets in the changing area. You can store valuables in a locker.
  3. In a Japanese Onsen, bathing naked is the norm. Some Ryokans offer swimwear for mixed baths.
  4. Thorough washing before bathing is mandatory. Onsen provide separate washing areas where you traditionally rinse off on a small stool.
  5. The small towel provided in the Onsen is placed on the head during bathing to regulate body temperature.
  6. Submerging completely is not preferred. Instead, find a cozy spot and enjoy the view.
  7. Using cell phones in the Onsen is not allowed, neither for calling nor for taking photos.
  8. The water can be extremely hot. However, there are often several pools and depending on where you sit it can be hotter or cooler.

Costs & Opening hours

The cost for an overnight stay in a Ryokan, including access to the Onsen, is approximately 30,000 – 45,000 yen per night.

The entrance fee for a public Onsen ranges from approximately 200 to 2,000 yen.

Opening hours are typically from early morning (9:00 – 11:00 AM) until evening (8:00 – 11:00 PM). In some Ryokans, the Onsen opens very early with sunrise.

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